Cleveland Guardians Pitchers Face Fraud, Game-Fixing Charges

Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz plead not guilty, trial likely delayed until fall

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Two Cleveland Guardians pitchers, Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, have pleaded not guilty to federal charges of wire fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to influence sporting contests. The trial is likely to be postponed until fall, after the conclusion of the MLB season, as the case involves allegations of rigging baseball games through a coded communication system with gamblers.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about the integrity of professional baseball, as it involves allegations of players conspiring with gamblers to fix the outcomes of games. The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for the careers of the involved pitchers and the broader public trust in the sport.

The details

The indictment describes a coded system used by the players, including the use of phrases like 'throw a rock at the first rooster in today's fight', to coordinate pitch-fixing during games. Prosecutors allege that bettors gained $27,000 by wagering on a single pitch that Clase threw in a game against the Cincinnati Reds.

  • On Wednesday, Clase and Ortiz pleaded not guilty in federal court.
  • The scheduled trial date of May 4 will likely be delayed, potentially until as late as October.

The players

Emmanuel Clase

A Cleveland Guardians pitcher who is accused of conspiring with gamblers to fix the outcomes of baseball games.

Luis Ortiz

A Cleveland Guardians pitcher who is accused of conspiring with gamblers to fix the outcomes of baseball games.

Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto

The judge presiding over the case, who indicated the trial will likely be delayed until after the MLB season.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage the integrity of our national pastime.”

— Robert Jenkins, Cleveland Resident

What’s next

The judge will decide on a new trial date, which is expected to be set for after the conclusion of the 2026 MLB season.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges professional sports leagues face in ensuring the integrity of their games, as even high-profile players can be tempted to engage in illegal activities that undermine public trust in the sport.